 In nuclear fission, large atoms are split apart to form smaller atoms, releasing energy.  Fission also produces new neutrons when an atom splits.  In order for fission to occur, the large isotope must be bombarded by a neutron.  Nuclear power plants use nuclear fission to produce electricity.

 The amount of energy released when a single atom undergoes fission is not that great  However, the new neutrons produced can then go on to split other atoms causing a chain reaction  Chain reactions result in huge amounts of energy being released in a matter of seconds

Fission large nuclei break up 235 U + 1 n 139 Ba + 94 Kr n Energy

Animation

 In nuclear fusion, energy is released when smaller atoms (nuclei) are combined or fused together to form a larger atom (nucleus).  Fusion reactions require extremely high temperatures (over 1 million degrees C°)  This is how the sun produces energy.

Fusion small nuclei combine 2 H + 3 H 4 He + 1 n Occurs in the sun and other stars Energy

Animation

Indicate if each of the following are (1) Fission(2) fusion A. Nucleus splits B. Large amounts of energy released C. Small nuclei form larger nuclei D. Hydrogen nuclei react Energy

Indicate if each of the following are (1) Fission(2) fusion A. 1 Nucleus splits B Large amounts of energy released C. 2 Small nuclei form larger nuclei D. 2 Hydrogen nuclei react